Published: April 2022
Last Reviewed: May 2025
It seems unfair but, for many people, even after blemishes have healed, their skin still bears the signs of acne. One of these signs is pimple marks caused by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Thankfully, there are options available for reducing the appearance of pimple marks. This article looks at the different measures you can try and also explains how the pimple marks come about in the first place.
Post-acne marks can appear in different forms and understanding the type you're dealing with is key to choosing the right solution. Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) shows up as red, pink, or purple flat marks caused by inflammation that damages or dilates the skin’s blood vessels.
It's more common in lighter skin tones and is unrelated to melanin, meaning traditional pigment-lightening ingredients may have limited effect.
In contrast, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) appears as brown or dark spots that result from excess melanin production after inflammation.
People with dark skin are normally more affected by hyperpigmentation marks than those with a lighter skin tone as skin pigmentation is stronger in dark skin.
You can find out more about what causes hyperpigmentation here.
The aftermath of an acne breakout can leave the skin with unwanted red spots or marks, which may be uncomfortable or even painful. Remember not to squeeze or pick at pimple marks. Instead, try a clinically tested skincare routine for blemish-prone skin to help reduce or remove pimple marks and spots.
Skincare routine to get rid of pimple marks
In the morning, start with the Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Intense Correcting Cleansing Gel, a gentle yet effective cleanser that removes excess oil and impurities without overdrying the skin, an essential step in preventing future breakouts that can lead to new marks.
Follow up with Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Triple Action Serum. With the first visible results in 2 weeks and continuous improvement over time*, this serum is specifically formulated to target post-acne marks, especially those that linger after breakouts.
Its key ingredient, Thiamidol, is an active ingredient proven to reduce hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production at the source. The serum also contains salicylic acid, which helps to gently exfoliate the skin and keep pores clear, and licochalcone A, a soothing antioxidant that reduces redness and inflammation.
*Product in use study with 100 volunteers, 8 weeks of regular usage twice a day.
Use Eucerin DERMOPURE CLINICAL Mattifying Fluid as the last step in your post-acne marks skincare routine to provide lightweight, non-comedogenic hydration while helping to control excess oil—a common trigger for new breakouts.
Its formula includes L-Carnitine to reduce sebum production and mattify the skin, which is especially beneficial if you’re prone to shine or have oily areas. At the same time, it contains anti-inflammatory ingredients like decandiol to help prevent new blemishes, and its gentle, fragrance-free formula won’t irritate skin that may still be healing from acne. Applying it last helps seal in the benefits of your previous treatments while ensuring your skin stays balanced and protected throughout the day.
People often use the terms acne mark and acne scar interchangeably. However, they are intrinsically different and may require specific treatments.
To find out more about how to reduce or remove scars caused by acne, read acne scarring.
While it is best to use clinically-proven products to help reduce red marks left by acne, you may want to explore other options to supplement your skincare routine. Apart from a skincare routine, there are several home remedies you can try to fade them:
Speak to a dermatologist if your post-acne marks are persisting and you would like to explore other solutions.
There are also more intense treatments, such as chemical peels and laser therapy, to reduce the appearance of pimple marks. These need to be carried out by a dermatologist who specialises in this area:
If your acne marks are bothering you, consult your doctor, who will be able to give advice on the best treatment options for your skin.
How long do pimple marks last?
How long your pimple marks last depends on the severity of your acne, your skin type and how you care for it. People with darker skin tones may see more pronounced and longer-lasting pimple marks.
How do I prevent pimple marks?
A good skincare routine can prevent blemishes from appearing in the first place, but once they have developed into spots, the best way to avoid post-acne marks is not to pick or squeeze them and use targeted skincare products.
